Minebea PM-9
Minebea Co., Ltd. · Submachine Gun · In Service · 1999
Also known as: 9mm Machine Pistol, 9mm Kenju, M9
Overview
The Minebea PM-9, designated the 9mm Machine Pistol in Japan Self-Defense Forces service, is a Japanese blowback-operated, open-bolt submachine gun chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum. Drawing on the layout of the IMI Mini-Uzi with a telescoping bolt and a forward grip ahead of the trigger group for control, it fires at a very high cyclic rate of around 1,100 rounds per minute from a 25-round magazine. Adopted in 1999, it equips support troops such as vehicle crews and artillery personnel, replacing the American M3 'Grease Gun' in JSDF service.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 2800 g (98.8 oz) |
| Overall Length | 399 mm (15.71") |
| Barrel Length | 120 mm (4.72") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Open Bolt |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 25 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Effective Range | 100 m (109 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 1100 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Phosphate |
Calibers
- 9x19mm Parabellum · primary · 9mm NATO — also known as 9mm Luger, 9mm NATO, 9x19mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic, Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Grip Safety
- Features: Machine Pistol Form Factor, Forward Grip, Telescoping Bolt, Iron Sights, Optional Reflex Sight
Service history
Operators
- Japan Ground Self-Defense Force · adopted 1999 · as 9mm Machine Pistol
- Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force · as 9mm Machine Pistol
Production
Production years: 1999-present
Produced by Minebea for the Japan Self-Defense Forces; exact production figures not publicly disclosed.
Origin
Country of origin: Japan
Notes
Known officially in the JSDF as the 9mm Machine Pistol (sometimes rendered 'M9'). Its high cyclic rate and compact, stockless form make it difficult to control in automatic fire, a frequent criticism of the design.
Background
Japan's first domestically designed submachine gun since World War II, the PM-9 borrows heavily from the Israeli Mini-Uzi yet adds a forward foregrip in an attempt to tame its blistering 1,100-rpm rate of fire.